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JAX → TPA
Which side of the plane to sit from Jacksonville International Airport (Jacksonville) to Tampa International Airport (Tampa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Gulf of Mexico coastline and the complex geography of Tampa Bay during the final approach.
Nature Coast
Wide-angle views of the Gulf of Mexico and the marshy, undeveloped coastline of West Central Florida.
Suwannee River
Spot the mouth of this historic river as it empties into the Gulf near Cedar Key.
Crystal River
Look for the distinctive blue waters and power plant near the bay, a famous manatee gathering spot.
Tampa Bay Bridges
Breathtaking views of the Howard Frankland and Gandy bridges during the descent into TPA.
St. Petersburg
On clear days, see the skyline of St. Pete and the white sands of Clearwater Beach in the distance.
The right side is ideal for sunset flights to catch the colors over the Gulf. For the best landing experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to see the transition from the emerald waters of the bay to the runway.
Jacksonville Skyline
Excellent views of the St. Johns River and downtown Jacksonville immediately after takeoff from JAX.
St. Johns River
Trace the winding path of Florida's longest river as it flows north toward the Atlantic.
Ocala National Forest
Observe the vast green expanse of one of the southernmost national forests in the United States.
Lake George
The second largest lake in Florida, known for its brackish water and proximity to the Ocala forest.
The Villages
Bird's eye view of the unique, sprawling retirement community layouts in Central Florida.
Sit on the left for the best morning light to avoid glare when looking toward the interior of the state. During night flights, you can often see the distant glow of Orlando's theme parks and metropolitan area.
Distance: 292 km (181 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 29 min
Departure: JAX (30.49410057067871, -81.68789672851562)
Arrival: TPA (27.975500106811523, -82.533203125)
Route Type: Domestic
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